LAWTON - There was no shortage of fun in the Lawton-Fort Sill Area last week, as three events were available to participate in: Open Streets, AMBUCS at Expo and Ware on C.
LAWTON - Thursday, Sept. 6, was an eventful day in Lawton as local businesses and organizations gathered in and around Central Mall for two separate events.
From 2 to 6 p.m. about 120 vendors set up booths in the Center Court of Central Mall to give new members of the community a glimpse of what Lawton has to offer, said Brandi Sims, communications manager for Lawton-Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce.
Hosted by the Chamber and sponsored by City National Bank, the first annual Welcome to the Community Expo highlighted organizations like the Community Action Council, The Salvation Army, AMBUCS and more for community members who are looking for services or volunteering opportunities.
Veteran Solutions 4 Life Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer Gary Hudsucker explained how the organization helps veterans find resources for training, career development, and business opportunities as well as connecting transitioning service- members with organizations in the area.
Representatives from Lawton Public Schools used their booth as a recruiting station, providing the information needed for those who would like to join the faculty and staff.
More than 300 positions are available this school year, according to their website. Most notably substitute support staff and certified substitute teachers are needed districtwide. Other positions include coaches, bus drivers, and special education teachers.
Several business representatives were also on hand promoting their goods and services and a few had applications available as well.
Natalie Poole, meeting and event planning engineer for Exceptional Occasions, LLC, showcased some of the events in her online portfolio and networked with others in the community. Ms. Poole is a retired Marine who has prepared venues for many events in the Lawton-Fort Sill area.
From 5:30 to 8 p.m., just north of the mall on C Avenue, vendor booths and several vintage cars from Stan Oldham’s collection lined the street as music and mouth-watering smells from local food trucks filled the air.
Oldham’s 1958 Dodge Royal received a lot of attention from the crowd. He is the owner of Stan’s Pool Construction in Lawton.
Platt College students and instructors were on hand to offer glucose and blood pressure screenings and several student massage therapists demonstrated their skill set. Executive Director Dennis Keplinger explained how Platt works with local facilities to help with job placement for graduates.
Several younger bike riders were able to put their hand's free riding skills to the test as Darrin Hall, owner of Terry’s Bicycles, 2102 W. Gore, showcased Cycocycle trikes that have no handlebars.
Named after Major General Henry Ware Lawton, the Ware District is home to several businesses, galleries, restaurants for the community to enjoy.
The next Ware on C Block Party is scheduled for Oct. 3, 2019.
For more information on the Expo and Ware on C events, visit the Lawton-Fort Sill Chamber of Commerce website at www.lawtonfort- sillchamber.com.